Being a small business owner has always been difficult, but, thankfully, many of the latest business trends make it much easier for small businesses to keep up with their big-box competitors. If you’re a small business owner, prioritize these three trends to make your business stand out.
1. Improve Your Communication Services
With technology being as advanced as it is, there’s no excuse for poor communication services. Purchase Ooma phone numbers, which rely on softphone technology, for all your employees. That way, they can answer their phones whether they’re working remotely or in person, and you don’t need to buy them landlines or work cell phones. You should also invest in a quality videoconferencing platform through your softphone or email provider so that you can hold meetings with all your team members and investors, regardless of their locations.
As you invest in this new technology, make sure your employees know how to use it. Hold several mandatory training meetings where your information technology experts explain each feature.
2. Expand Your eCommerce Presence
Any transactions that take place online count as eCommerce. Whether you send money electronically for sales completed in person or you have a full-blown online store, it’s time to expand your eCommerce offerings. If your website doesn’t have a store, you must work with your web designer to accept orders online as soon as possible. If you already have an online store, make sure that all your products are listed accurately and that you promote your store. Also, ensure that your product descriptions are thorough and that you include keywords that match your target market’s online searches.
3. Emphasize Community
Today, customers want their businesses to be involved in their communities, and they also want to shop locally. When you purchase your company’s phone numbers, make sure that they include your city’s area code. Donate regularly to local groups such as Boy and Girl Scout troops, community centers, food banks, schools, and homeless shelters. Participate in local events such as fairs, races, and parades. Create business networks with other entrepreneurs in your town, and host cooperative loyalty programs or celebrations. For example, give your customers loyalty cards, and offer them discounts or free products if they shop a certain number of times at participating stores.
The increasing digitization of the business world makes it much easier for small business owners to succeed. Implement these three trends today to increase your company’s efficiency and customer appeal.
